MENTAL HEALTH FIX
Belgian Gardens space will increase service potential
MORE access to much-needed mental health services is being made available in Townsville thanks to a new facility established in Belgian Gardens.
Psychology for Living Well, operated by Townsville psychologist Wendy Arnold, along with other privately trading psychologists, have leased space in modern consulting facilities in Ryan Street in the grounds of the Townsville Senior Citizens Welfare Association.
Psychology for Living Well also trades at the Eastbrooke Health Hub in Thuringowa Central, which will continue to operate at that location until the services are consolidated at Belgian Gardens, which is expected to occur from late next year.
Ms Arnold said the Belgian Gardens facilities would allow for expansion of their services including the ability to operate group therapy for alcohol and other drugs and art therapy where art is used for expression and communication.
“We outgrew our space. This building is perfect for what we want to do. It’s also a beautiful location close to the seafront,” Ms Arnold said.
The premises will provide space for 10 provisional and registered psychologists.
Ms Arnold said the current system of low rebates from funds and Medicare meant mental health treatment from private psychologists was difficult to obtain because of cost.
This is despite a growing incidence of mental health illness in Australia, particularly depression, anxiety and alcohol and substance disorders.
It was not uncommon for registered psychologists to be booked up six months in advance in Townsville, she said.
“The system seems to make access to mental health care a bit more difficult than for other services,” Ms Arnold said.
Ray White Commercial Townsville director Troy Townsend said Psychology for Living Well had leased about 530 sqm in a modern airconditioned facility with fully fitted consulting rooms, meeting rooms and open space.
Mr Townsend said it had obtained a very good leasing rate of around $200 per sqm for what would be considered an A grade building constructed in 2013.
It would also benefit from the building’s solar power system saving it up to $1500 a month in electricity costs.
The premises include a reception and waiting area, private offices, large meeting and training rooms, open plan exercise and rehabilitation areas, treatment rooms, disabled access and ablutions, lunch rooms and attractive gardens and covered breakout area.